Parent and Community Engagement

Community visits

The purpose of this Guide is to promote effective ways for Indigenous Parents and Boarding Providers to communicate and relate to one another. Includes checklists and explanatory notes to assist with implementing some of the tools, identified barriers in boarding and restorative principles of engagement.

Indigenous Parents of Boarding Students 2022

What-works-draft-logo

WW report based on consultations with parents of Indigenous Boarding students. Contains six recommendations based on engagement with communities prior to enrolment, establishment of cultural advisory groups, chaperones for students from remote communities and the provision of ABSTUDY workshops for parents so they are aware of their rights and entitlements.

Listening to First Nations young people REPORT

A report on two consultations: one with a group of current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boarding students from AFL Cape York House; secondly with young adult woman who had been to boarding schools. Key themes around Before, During and After boarding and qualities of good teachers. Includes infographics

Listening to First Nations Young People – #1 BEFORE

One-page storyboard (jpg file) of colour images and text depicting the journey for remote Indigenous boarding students before arriving at boarding school.
Includes advice for schools on what student and family supports are needed, including teachers visiting community to understand the student’s context and shared expectations.

Community Visits Checklist

The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines around what guidelines boarding providers and schools should follow when visiting communities. It highlights the importance of community-school relationships and the responsibility of provider’s to be respectful and genuine.

Preboarding 8: Parent-Guardian Readiness

The purpose of this document is to collate best practice evidence on how to prepare parents/guardians for the boarding journey. It includes practical measures to ensure providers are ensuring parents maintain autonomy and are empowered throughout the process.

Preboarding 6: Student Resources

The purpose of this guide is to provide insight into the necessary resources for a student’s successful transition into boarding from physical documents to emotional preparedness.

Preboarding 5: Regular Contact with Families

The purpose of this guide is to highlight best practice for assisting Indigenous boarders through the adjustment phase, via family contact. It focuses on the principles of trust, confidence and relationships. It notes things providers need to consider in this regard.